Perth, a charming city nestled in the heart of Scotland, offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. With a thriving economy and a vibrant cultural scene, Perth presents exciting opportunities for both locals and those seeking to relocate.   

Perth, situated along the banks of the River Tay in central Scotland, is a city rich in history and culture. Beyond its picturesque landscapes and historic sites, Perth boasts a dynamic job market that has evolved significantly in recent years. This article delves into the employment landscape of Perth, Scotland, providing insights into job opportunities, key industries, and recent economic developments.

Employment Statistics and Trends

As of December 2023, Perth and Kinross reported an employment rate of 76.8% among individuals aged 16 to 64, marking an increase from 76.0% in December 2022. This rate surpasses the national average for Scotland, which stood at 74.7% during the same period. The unemployment rate in Perth and Kinross experienced a slight decline, dropping from 3.0% in December 2022 to 2.9% in December 2023. Additionally, the economic inactivity rate decreased from 21.3% to 21.0% over the same timeframe, indicating a positive trend in workforce engagement. 

Key Industries and Employment Opportunities

Perth’s economy is diverse, with several key industries contributing to employment:

Public Sector: The public sector remains a significant employer in Scotland. However, between September 2023 and September 2024, public sector employment in Scotland decreased by 4,510 (-0.8%), primarily due to reclassification of certain organizations. 

Renewable Energy: Scotland’s commitment to renewable energy has led to increased demand for skilled professionals in this sector. Significant investments are planned in offshore wind, electricity networks, hydrogen, and carbon capture, creating numerous job opportunities. ScottishPower, for instance, aims to hire 1,000 more people next year and invest £5.4 billion in Scottish infrastructure through 2028. 

Healthcare: The healthcare sector continues to offer a range of employment opportunities, from clinical roles to administrative positions. The demand for healthcare professionals remains steady, contributing to the sector’s stability.

Logistics and Distribution: The acquisition of Menzies Distribution by InPost Group for £60.4 million highlights the growth in the logistics sector, potentially leading to job creation in Perth and surrounding areas. 

Job Listings and Recruitment

Several platforms provide up-to-date job listings in Perth:

Indeed: Offers a variety of job postings in Perth, including positions such as HGV Class 2 Driver, Experienced Surveyor, and Senior Veterinary Inspector. 

s1jobs: Lists numerous jobs in Perth, with roles ranging from Reprographic Assistant to Field Sales Executive. 

Reed.co.uk: Features job opportunities in Perth, including Graduate Management Trainee positions and Operations Maintenance Technician roles. 

MyJobScotland: Provides listings for public sector jobs, particularly with the Perth and Kinross Council, offering positions such as Bereavement Services Team Leader and Clerk of Works. 

Economic Developments and Future Outlook

Recent economic developments indicate a positive trajectory for Perth’s job market:

Green Energy Initiatives: Investments in renewable energy projects are expected to create a surge in green jobs. Scotland leads the UK in green job advertisements, reflecting a growing emphasis on sustainable industries. 

Infrastructure Projects: Plans for refurbishing facilities like the Hunterston marine yard into an offshore wind hub demonstrate a commitment to infrastructure development, potentially leading to job creation in construction and related sectors. 

Economic Growth: While the Scottish economy is projected to experience “subdued” growth of 0.9% this year, investments in skills, training, and employment for youth are expected to bolster the job market in the long term. 

Challenges and Considerations

Despite positive trends, challenges remain:

Skill Shortages: The transition to a green economy requires a workforce with specialized skills. There is an urgent need for expanding training and apprenticeships in Scotland to supply skilled workers for the net zero transition. 

Economic Inactivity: Although there has been a slight decrease, economic inactivity remains a concern. Efforts to engage this segment of the population through targeted employment services are ongoing. 

Understanding the Job Market

Key Industries: Perth boasts a diverse economy with key sectors including:

Tourism and Hospitality: The city benefits from its proximity to stunning natural attractions like Loch Tay and the Cairngorms National Park, driving a strong tourism sector.

Healthcare: Perth Royal Infirmary and associated healthcare facilities provide employment opportunities in the healthcare sector.   

Education: The University of the Highlands and Islands, with a campus in Perth, contributes to the local economy and provides employment opportunities in education and research.   

Retail and Hospitality: The city center and surrounding areas offer a variety of retail and hospitality jobs, including shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Technology and Innovation: Perth is increasingly becoming a hub for technology and innovation, with growing sectors such as software development and digital media.   

Key Job Boards:

Indeed: A popular platform with a vast database of jobs across various sectors.   

LinkedIn: A professional networking site that allows you to connect with recruiters and search for job openings.   

ScottishJobs: A dedicated job board for Scotland, featuring a wide range of vacancies across the country.

Perthshire Advertiser: The local newspaper often features job advertisements for positions within the Perth area.   

Council Website: The Perth and Kinross Council website may also list job vacancies within the local authority.   

Tips for Finding Work in Perth

Network: Attend local networking events, connect with professionals in your field on LinkedIn, and reach out to your personal and professional network.

Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application, highlighting the skills and experience most relevant to the specific role.

Prepare for Interviews: Practice your interview skills and research potential employers thoroughly to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm.

Consider Temporary or Contract Work: Temporary or contract positions can be a good way to gain experience in the local job market and increase your chances of finding permanent employment.

Explore Remote Work Options: With the rise of remote work, consider exploring opportunities to work remotely for companies based outside of Perth.

FAQs

What are the key industries in Perth?

Tourism and Hospitality: Perthshire boasts stunning scenery, attracting tourists for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and golfing. This sector offers employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, visitor attractions, and outdoor adventure companies.

Life Sciences and Healthcare: Perthshire has a growing life sciences sector, with a focus on research and development. Opportunities exist in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare technology.

Renewable Energy: With a focus on sustainable energy, Perthshire is a hub for renewable energy projects, including wind power and hydroelectricity.

Agriculture and Food Production: Perthshire has a strong agricultural sector, with opportunities in farming, food processing, and related industries.

Education and Research: The University of Perth and other educational institutions provide employment opportunities in teaching, research, and administration.

What are the average salaries in Perth?

Salaries in Perth vary depending on the industry, role, and experience.

Average salaries:

Low-skilled jobs: £18,000 – £25,000 per year

Mid-skilled jobs: £25,000 – £40,000 per year

High-skilled jobs: £40,000+ per year

What is the cost of living in Perth?

The cost of living in Perth is generally lower than in major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. However, housing costs can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation.

What are the job market trends in Perth?

Growth sectors: Tourism, life sciences, and renewable energy are expected to see continued growth.

Skills in demand:

Technical skills: IT, engineering, and renewable energy technologies.

Tourism and hospitality skills: Customer service, hospitality management, and outdoor skills.

Life sciences skills: Research, biotechnology, and healthcare expertise.

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